Tag Archive for: goals

MR SANDMAN BRING ME A DREAM

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MINERAL RIDGE OH-  Mineral Ridge’s very own AJ Sandy is set to take a monumental step toward fulfilling his lifelong dreams. The high school star is preparing to sign on the dotted line to join Teal College’s baseball team. This major milestone in Sandy’s athletic career will take place today at Mineral Ridge High School.

For Sandy, who has been nurturing his baseball dreams since the tender age of five, today signifies the culmination of years of dedication and hard work. He opened up about the mix of excitement and nerves he’s experiencing, emphasizing how rewarding it feels to be on the cusp of playing college ball. Reflecting on his senior year, Sandy discussed how completing the recruiting process has allowed him to focus wholeheartedly on his team’s performance. This year, Sandy and the Mineral Ridge team have set their sights on claiming the league title outright after tying last year. The team is also hungry to go further in the district playoffs.

Thiel College caught Sandy’s eye because of its welcoming atmosphere and small-campus feel, reminiscent of his tight-knit community in Mineral Ridge. Visiting the college two months ago solidified his decision, as he felt a genuine sense of being wanted by the college’s team. While Sandy continues to excel on the baseball field, his leadership isn’t limited to athletics. He is also focused on guiding the younger players at Mineral Ridge, helping them blossom into the next generation of leaders.

Beyond baseball, Sandy’s family, steeped in athletic tradition, has played a significant role in shaping his journey. His father, a well-respected softball coach, has been instrumental in Sandy’s development as both an athlete and a leader. With the support of his family, friends, and the Mineral Ridge community, AJ Sandy is ready to leave his mark at Teal College. Today’s signing is not just the beginning of his college career but a testament to his perseverance and love for the game. As he signs his commitment, everyone is eager to see the promising future that awaits this talented young athlete.

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WRESTLING WEDNESDAYS WITH GARY ALTHISER (EP 11) FEATURING BRYDON FEISTER

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AKRON OH- In the latest installment of YSN’s “Wrestling Wednesdays,” hosts Gary Althiser, Brydon “Squeek” Feister, Anthony Hartwig, and DJ Yokley delved into the inspiring journey of state wrestling champion Feister. Squeek, who proudly represented the YSN coverage area, shared insights into his triumphant path to victory in Columbus.

Reflecting on the moments following his championship win, Squeek fondly recalled the first thoughts that ran through his mind: finding his mother in the stands to share in that moment. It was evident that family played a pivotal role in his journey, from his brother, who served as his drilling partner, to his father’s influence and work ethic. Squeek’s journey was not without its challenges, including a bout with illness that saw him drop significant weight. Demonstrating resilience, he pushed through adversity, regaining strength and focus, highlighted by his strategic approach in the finals match. The hosts commended him for his determination, recognizing it as a true testament to his character and skill.

Beyond the mat, Squeek remains grounded with aspirations of becoming a four-time state champion and pursuing higher education. His humility and dedication serve as an inspiration to young athletes, making him a role model within the Hoban community and beyond. In a segment filled with camaraderie, humor, and admiration for the sport, the episode underscored the hard work and spirit required to achieve greatness in wrestling. The enthusiasm and support from the YSN team further highlighted the network’s commitment to showcasing local talent.

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MEROLILLO MAKING HER FINAL IMPACT

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MINERAL RIDGE OH- Mineral Ridge senior and softball pitcher Lily Merolillo navigates through an emotional senior season, cherishing her final games with lifelong teammates while preparing for a bright future. Reflecting on her last high school season, Merolillo shared the challenge of handling “all the lasts” that accompany senior year. The close bond with her teammates, described as a second family, adds to the bittersweet nature of her final season. Continuously striving for improvement, she remains committed to extra practice, exemplifying her dedication both on and off the field.

Merolillo, who fell in love with softball at a young age, continues to embrace the pressure and responsibility that comes with pitching. Her confidence is bolstered by the team’s solid defense and her belief in the importance of lifting each other up. Despite the difficulty of parting from familiar faces, including her father who co-head coaches the team, Merolillo is excited for the future. Committed to Teal College, she plans to major in exercise science while continuing her softball career. This season, Mineral Ridge faces a challenging schedule, testing the squad’s skills against formidable opponents like Boardman. Merolillo is optimistic about their prospects, invigorated by the prospect of one last successful run with her team.

With her sights set on leaving a lasting legacy of support and teamwork, Merolillo prepares to transition from an accomplished high school athlete to a promising college player, her journey fueled by family, coaches, and a supportive community.

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RISK TAKER, HISTORY MAKER

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MINERAL RIDGE, OH- Ava Hulett, a senior standout from Mineral Ridge, continues to leave an indelible mark on the athletics scene. Despite a season that didn’t end as she hoped, Hulett’s illustrious career is far from over. She has already amassed over 1,000 digs and kills in volleyball and over 1,400 points in basketball, cementing her place in Mineral Ridge history. Her track season is yet to come, promising even more accolades as she shines the brightest in her favorite sport.

In a recent interview with YSN hosts DJ Yokley and Anthony Hartwig, Ava revealed her excitement about focusing solely on track this year. Her singular focus comes as she enters her final high school track season, free from the demands of starting open gyms for other sports. This new chapter in her career is filled with promise and Ava is eager to add more accomplishments to her already impressive resume.

While she faces the pressures of high expectations, Ava thrives under the spotlight. It’s in these moments of heightened attention that she delivers her best performances, driven by the crowd’s energy. Ava attributes her motivation to a combination of personal goal-setting and the unwavering support of her parents and coaches, who push her to achieve more.

Although track is her primary focus, DJ Yokley reminds us of the upcoming YSN All Star basketball game where Ava will represent Mineral Ridge. The event promises to draw a large crowd, and Ava is eager to perform on such a big stage.

Even as she looks toward her future, Ava remains deeply connected to her roots in Mineral Ridge. She speaks fondly of the incoming classes of athletes, particularly highlighting their potential in basketball and volleyball. As she prepares to leave Mineral Ridge, Ava hopes to make her mark by breaking hurdle records and potentially becoming a state champion.

Ava Hulett embodies the spirit of a true athlete, balancing academics and sports while remaining humble despite her significant achievements. Her exemplary work ethic and dedication serve as an inspiration to many in the community. As she gears up for her final track season, everyone awaits the legacy she will leave behind at Mineral Ridge.

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THEY’RE ALL CLAPPING FOR CLEMMER

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Columbiana, OH – In just her sophomore year, Annah Clemmer has already become a pivotal player for the Columbiana High School girls’ basketball team. Filling a key role on the varsity squad, Clemmer’s rapid rise has captivated fans and left a significant mark on the team’s success this season.

Clemmer’s journey to varsity stardom wasn’t without its challenges. Transitioning from limited varsity minutes as a freshman to being a crucial part of the team, her teammates’ support has been invaluable. “It was a lot at first…my team has really just helped me kind of adapt and embrace the role,” Clemmer shared in a recent interview on the YSN podcast. A versatile player, Clemmer’s confidence on the court is palpable. She credits this to her trust in her abilities and the dynamic support system within the team. “I think I just try and, you know, even if I’m not confident, I try and exude it,” she said.

Columbiana’s robust basketball program has consistently produced excellent teams over the last decade, a legacy Clemmer always aspired to be part of. Now, as a varsity player herself, she relishes every moment. “I love this team so much…it’s just a great opportunity,” she said passionately. The Clippers are known not just for their balanced offensive threats but also for their stifling defense. “Our defense tends to create our offense,” Clemmer noted, highlighting the symbiotic relationship between the team’s defensive and offensive strategies. Under the guidance of Coach Chrisman, whose motto “buy in and sell out” resonates with the team, Clemmer has found strong leadership and a sense of unity. “Coach Chrisman’s a great coach…I think it brings us all together,” she remarked.

Off the court, Clemmer and her teammates bond through activities such as team lunches, which cultivate the trust they display during games. Her dedication to improvement extends beyond the regular season, participating in AAU basketball to hone her skills against high-caliber competition. Balancing academics and athletics is no small feat, especially with a rigorous schedule that includes classes like algebra 2 and pre-calculus. Yet, Clemmer excels, particularly enjoying math and history. “It’s a lot of work…but I really like math,” she noted.

As Clemmer continues to shine, she remains grounded and mindful of those who supported her journey, thanking her teammates, father, and coach for their unwavering support. “They pick me up every game and they have pretty much gotten me where I am this season,” she expressed with gratitude. Annah Clemmer’s story is one of hard work, commitment, and the power of teamwork, embodying the spirit that makes Columbiana girls’ basketball a force to be reckoned with. Fans eagerly anticipate what this talented sophomore will achieve as she continues to grow and inspire others in the seasons to come.

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GRAND ON THE GRIDIRON

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CANFIELD, OH-The South Range Raiders’ impressive season continues to ride on the back of strong performances and solid teamwork, epitomized by none more so than senior defensive lineman Steve Grandon. Amid an 11-0 run, the Raiders look ahead to week 12 with optimism and grit, spurred by Grandon’s unwavering support both on and off the field.

During a recent episode of the YSN Podcast, hosted by DJ Yokley, Grandon discussed the challenges and triumphs of his final high school season. Despite the pressures of being a senior balancing academics and athletics, particularly grappling with a demanding schedule of English assignments, Grandon remains focused on the ultimate goal: leading his team toward potential championship glory.

Grandon’s contribution to the Raiders extends beyond mere athletic prowess. He embodies the spirit of camaraderie, identifying himself humbly as the “hype guy” – the one responsible for rallying his teammates and keeping spirits high. “Everybody incorporates on the team. It’s. Everybody has one certain job to complete, and you just got to rely on everybody else,” he emphasized.

Off the field, Grandon contemplates two possible career paths: a service in the military, following the footsteps of several family members, or a hands-on vocation in carpentry, a passion he shares with his grandfather. The latter has given him cherished memories, like building cornhole boards – a simple yet meaningful project where the process held more value than the product.

Grandon’s dedication is mirrored by the staunch support from his family, particularly his “super fan” aunt and a bustling household of six siblings. His service-oriented attitude and resolve to impart valuable lessons to his younger brothers and sisters are testaments to his outstanding character.

In a surprising revelation, the senior lineman also shared a passion for culinary arts, promising a delicious “steak, potatoes, and maybe lobster” with a chocolate milkshake if ever tasked with preparing a last meal. His siblings are the lucky recipients of his culinary experiments, further strengthening family bonds.

As the Raiders charge forward, eyes set on championship aspirations, Grandon’s anchor-like presence is vital. Both on the gridiron and in life, the community-centered values and resilience he demonstrates are qualities his team and coaches highly cherish.

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CALL OF DUTY; BELL WINS BOWLING GREEN’S MEDAL OF HONOR

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BOWLING GREEN, OH-  In a recent episode of YSN’s podcast, host DJ Yokley sat down with Logan Bell, the 2024 Medal of Honor recipient and Medal of Excellence winner from Bowling Green State University. Bell, a standout athlete from Lisbon David Anderson High School known for shattering records and later taking his talents to the baseball diamond, opened up about his journey, the essence of teamwork, and his aspirations for the future.

Bell’s commitment to excellence both on and off the field was recognized when he was awarded Bowling Green’s prestigious Medal of Honor. This accolade is not just a testament to his athletic prowess but also a nod to his leadership and community impact. Reflecting on the moment he found out about the award, Bell shared, “I’m very thankful to have been nominated and received the award, and I’m glad that I can represent BGSU in the way that it intends athletes to represent the school.”

Bell’s collegiate career was punctuated by significant challenges, including undergoing the harrowing experience of Tommy John surgery. “Relying on my parents and my faith to get me through those, that long summer and that long return to playing is kind of the biggest thing that has helped me,” stated Bell, emphasizing the support system that saw him through his trials.
He credits his never-give-up attitude to taking things one day at a time, focusing on each step of the recovery process rather than being overwhelmed by the road ahead.

Throughout the interview, Bell consistently highlighted the importance of being a good teammate, a philosophy he lives by. “It’s not about my accomplishments, it’s about the team’s accomplishments,” he profoundly iterated, reinforcing the message that individual recognition always takes a backseat to the collective success of his team.

Bell is no stranger to hardship. He discussed the numerous rejections he faced in high school, noting, “Pick out something that you see every day and write down your goals.” He added that resilience amid criticism is key – to see it as a means to enhance one’s capabilities instead of taking it personally.
As for his future, Bell is clear on his aspirations and pragmatic about the possible trajectories his baseball career could take. He spoke passionately about the prospect of winning a MAC championship and venturing into professional baseball. “Whether it takes me the next 20 years of my life or whether it takes me five years,” Bell mused, underlining his commitment to achieving what many only dream of.

Logan Bell’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and humility. Showcasing remarkable talent and a veteran’s poise, he serves as an embodiment of what it means to overcome adversity and emerge victorious. Bell exhibits the heart and hustle of a true champion, and according to DJ Yokley, he does it all while sporting a work-in-progress mustache.

In the world of collegiate athletics, where stars shine bright, Bell is undoubtedly one of the luminaries guiding the way for future generations.Bell’s story serves as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere — fight for your dreams, lean on your community, strive for excellence, and remember that the journey is every bit as significant as the destination.

WESTERN RESERVE FOOTBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 3) WITH JOHN ARMENI

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BERLIN CENTER, OH- In the latest episode of YSN’s “Coaches Corner with Coach John Armeni,” the focus was on Western Reserve’s victorious Week Twelve playoff game and the upcoming rematch against Lowellville. Coach Armeni shared his insights and thoughts on the team’s performance, individual records broken, and the importance of the offensive line.

Week Twelve of the playoffs has been a whirlwind for Coach Armeni and his team. It’s hard to believe that the regular season has already reached its end, with playoff football now captivating the community. The atmosphere during their last game against Lisbon was electrifying, with the players showing immense excitement and determination. Practice sessions even took place in the snow, adding an extra challenge to their preparations.

Regarding the victory over Lisbon, Coach Armeni credited their offense for having little trouble during the game. Their offensive line dominated, allowing them to open up running lanes and get their skill players involved. Defensively, there were some struggles early on, but adjustments were made, leading to an improved performance. One crucial moment in the game was calling a timeout and being able to score right before halftime, which boosted their momentum and ultimately propelled them to victory.

Nathan Hemberger, an exceptional talent and the league leader in tackles, played a significant role in the game against Lisbon. Not only did he score six rushing touchdowns, but he also blocked a punt and scored a touchdown off the block. Hemberger’s outstanding contributions broke multiple records, including the most touchdowns scored in a game, most touchdowns in a season, and the school record for Western Reserve. Additionally, Air Henning, with both a thousand yards passing and rushing, showcased his importance to the team’s success.

Coach Armeni emphasized that the personal accomplishments and records are a testament to the team’s overall success. Of course, he acknowledged that none of it would be possible without the support and efforts of the offensive line. The linemen have been dominant recently, and their contributions should not go unnoticed.

Looking back at the regular season, Coach Armeni noted that their biggest win was against Louisville, a fiercely competitive opponent. He praised Lowellville’s coaching staff and their talented roster, including strong linemen and skilled athletes. Western Reserve’s game plan was to control the tempo, which they executed successfully, resulting in a hard-fought victory. As they head into the rematch, the team aims to replicate their previous strategy and turn the game into a battle rather than a track meet.

Coach Armeni mentioned that his players have responded well to the playoffs and are focused on playing their best football. While personal accomplishments and records are great, the primary goal remains winning games and advancing further in the playoffs.

As Western Reserve gears up for their rematch against Louisville, the entire community is filled with anticipation and excitement. The team’s dedication, the spectacular performances, and the resilience of their offensive line have all contributed to their success. With the playoffs in full swing, Coach Armeni and his players are determined to continue their winning streak and make their mark in the postseason.

 

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ALL ABOARD THE E TRAIN

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CANFIELD, OH-  In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with the talented senior player from South Range, Blake Ewert.

Known as the “E Train” and “Spike”, Blake has been a standout on the field for years, gaining the admiration of his teammates and younger brothers alike.

We dive deep as we discuss Blake’s last ride as a senior, the electrifying moments on the football field, and the goals he has set for himself.

Join us as we get to know Blake Ewert, the running back sensation. Tune in to this captivating episode of YSN!

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